The AFL has confirmed that State of Origin football will return in 2026, ending a 27-year absence. The match will see Victoria take on Western Australia at Optus Stadium in Perth on 14 February, Valentine's Day.
The last State of Origin game was played in 1999, when Victoria defeated South Australia by 54 points at the MCG. South Australia was not included this time following strong lobbying from the Western Australian government.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said the decision followed discussions with clubs and players, emphasising fan demand. 'We know that the fans will flock to this game when we get the best players from WA and Victoria on a massive stage,' he said.
The first State of Origin match was held in Perth in 1977. The last time Western Australia faced Victoria was in 1992, when Victoria won by 67 points. The 2026 game will be broadcast on Channel 7, Fox, 7Plus and Kayo.
